First Exposure

Health Topics

COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine in Pregnancy and Lactation

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (first recognized in December 2019). SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to change, resulting in variants that are different from the original SARS-CoV-2 virus. SARS-CoV-2 virus is spread through respiratory droplets and aerosols (smaller droplets that can linger in the air, especially in indoor spaces), which are created when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes, or talks.

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Mental Health in Pregnancy and Lactation

Common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and related conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder are experienced by 1 out of 5 pregnant and postpartum individuals- these are some of the most common complications of pregnancy and the first year postpartum.

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Treating the Common Cold in Pregnancy and Lactation

Upper respiratory tract viral infections (URTIS), also known as the common cold, usually start with symptoms of headache, sneezing, and sore throat and later symptoms of a runny or stuffy nose, cough, and general feelings of discomfort. The common cold is caused by several types of viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most common. This health topic is an expert opinion about treating the common cold during pregnancy and lactation. This health topic is intended for the public and health care providers.

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Influenza Vaccine in Pregnancy and Lactation

Seasonal influenza infection, commonly referred to as “the flu,” is caused by the influenza virus. The influenza virus that causes seasonal flu can change year to year. As a result, the seasonal influenza vaccine is changed most years to protect against strains that will be the most prevalent during the upcoming flu season. This health topic is an expert opinion about the seasonal influenza vaccine (flu shot) during pregnancy and lactation. This health topic is intended for the public and health care providers.

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Fentanyl in Pregnancy and Lactation

Fentanyl is a type of opioid pain medication. Opioids are prescribed for the treatment of severe, short term (acute), or long term (chronic) pain. This health topic is an expert opinion about the use of fentanyl during pregnancy and lactation. This health topic is intended for the public and health care providers.

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Topical Treatments for Vaginal Yeast Infections in Pregnancy and Lactation

Vaginal yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis) is a common cause of vaginal itching, soreness, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pain during vaginal sex. Infections are more common in pregnancy because hormonal changes create a favourable environment for yeast to grow. This health topic is an expert opinion about treating vaginal yeast infections with topical antifungals during pregnancy and lactation. This health topic is intended for the public and health care providers. 

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Disclaimer

First Exposure does not offer health care treatment. If you have an urgent question about your pregnancy or your baby’s health, you should contact your health care provider directly. If you don’t have a health care provider and you live in Ontario, you have a variety of health care options. In the case of an emergency, visit a hospital emergency room or call 911.